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        <title>JBGoodwin REALTORS® - Austin &amp; San Antonio Real Estate Blog</title>
        <link>https://www.jbgoodwin.com/blog/2015-11/</link>
        <description>Stay up to date on the latest Austin, San Antonio, and Central Texas real estate trends with JBGoodwin's real estate blog.</description>
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    <guid>https://www.jbgoodwin.com/blog/thanks-to-jbgoodwin-realtors-20th-annual-thanksgiving-meal-volunteers.html</guid>
    <link>https://www.jbgoodwin.com/blog/thanks-to-jbgoodwin-realtors-20th-annual-thanksgiving-meal-volunteers.html</link>
        <author>macastro@jbgoodwin.com (Mary Ann Castro)</author>
        <title>Thanks to JBGoodwin REALTORS® 20th Annual Thanksgiving Meal Volunteers</title>
    <description> <![CDATA[ 
JBGoodwin REALTORS® is pleased to to publicly thank a few of our fantastic agents who took time to give back to the community this Thanksgiving.


Our Thanksgiving team got together at the Salvation Army's downtown shelter and social service center on Wednesday, and served over 550 meals This was our 20th year in a row participating in the event, and the largest turn out of diners to date. 


This year's volunteers included:




Buddy Schilling


Dorothy Palmore


DeAnn Lewis


Missy Shelton


Christine Kohloff


Chuck Jenner


Laurie Kriegel


Jeanmarie Theine


Del Womack




If you'd like to help us give back to the community, Like us on Facebook or bookmark our blog. We'll be announcing details of our 19th annual Coats For Kids drive next week
 ]]> </description>
    <pubDate>Fri, 27 Nov 2015 12:08:26 -0600</pubDate>
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    <guid>https://www.jbgoodwin.com/blog/austin-mls-sold-comparison-october-2015.html</guid>
    <link>https://www.jbgoodwin.com/blog/austin-mls-sold-comparison-october-2015.html</link>
        <author>macastro@jbgoodwin.com (Mary Ann Castro)</author>
        <title>Austin MLS Sold Comparison - October 2015</title>
    <description> <![CDATA[  ]]> </description>
    <pubDate>Wed, 25 Nov 2015 11:29:00 -0600</pubDate>
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    <guid>https://www.jbgoodwin.com/blog/building-a-home-kb-home-knows-its-all-about-you.html</guid>
    <link>https://www.jbgoodwin.com/blog/building-a-home-kb-home-knows-its-all-about-you.html</link>
        <author>macastro@jbgoodwin.com (Mary Ann Castro)</author>
        <title>Building A Home - KB Home Knows It's All About You</title>
    <description> <![CDATA[ 
Building a home in Austin, TX? Once the lot has been purchased, the next step is finding a builder. With so many Austin custom builders to choose from, it's one of the toughest decisions. You may not know who to trust or if they'll really give you what you want. It's a lot of money that you're investing, so you'll want to make sure it's done right, and that you're really getting what you want. It can be difficult finding a builder that you trust and that will listen to your every request, no matter how trivial they think it is. With KB Home, you don't have to worry about not being heard. After all, it's a lot of time and money going into the project, and KB Home understands this more than anyone.


With offices all over the country, KB Home is a premier builder that will exceed your every expectation. So what makes KB Home such a great builder? Keep reading to find out.


Buy Now, Save Later


Building a home can be expensive, but there are ways to save money without settling for lower quality products. KB Home prides itself on offering products that promote sustainability and help save valuable resources. If you choose KB Home as your builder, you will notice that the combination of affordable pricing and energy efficient homes will help you save more money over time. As environment enthusiasts, they believe it's important to make each home Energy Star rated. These efficient residences will give additional comfort to your family, while conserving energy.


Now And Then


It's important to find a builder that will not only listen to you, but will also be able to assess your future needs. Many people don't think about a home they'll be wanting in twenty years. KB Home builders are experts at delivering a combination of what you want now and what you'll need in the future.


From stunning floorplans to custom designed estates, KB Home is eager and ready to build the home of your dreams. Every single detail is customizable and chosen by you. This company will guide you with money-saving tips that will enable you to afford the important features that you want. KB Home will also design a property that suits your lifestyle and will be suitable for you, for many years to come.


Details Matter


Building a home can be fun With so many details to choose, such as flooring and fixtures, you can have the dream home you've always wanted. KB Home leaves no detail overlooked. From state-of-the-art appliances to energy-efficient insulation and window paneling, KB Home will spare no expense to make sure each home is of high quality. You can even browse the company's studio for countless options such as backsplashes and finishes. There's no better place to buy quality materials than from builders themselves.


Years Later


It's really important that once your home is done, your builder keeps in touch and periodically checks in to confirm everything is functioning properly. KB Home will perform consistent home walkthroughs and follow up with you after you move in, to be sure the home is up to your standards. Additionally, every residence includes a 10-year limited warranty, giving you the peace of mind that KB Home is there for you even after your property is completed.


No matter what type of home you want to build, KB Home will listen to your every desire and make sure you're happy with the outcome. If you choose KB Home, you'll enjoy every second of the process. From selecting the floor plan to customizing the interior and picking up the keys to your new home, this will be an experience you won't forget. Don't waste any more time and get in touch with KB Home to start building your dream home today.
 ]]> </description>
    <pubDate>Mon, 23 Nov 2015 14:07:00 -0600</pubDate>
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    <guid>https://www.jbgoodwin.com/blog/financing-your-second-home-in-austin-tx.html</guid>
    <link>https://www.jbgoodwin.com/blog/financing-your-second-home-in-austin-tx.html</link>
        <author>macastro@jbgoodwin.com (Mary Ann Castro)</author>
        <title>Financing Your Second Home In Austin, TX</title>
    <description> <![CDATA[ 
 Are you ready to buy a second home in Austin ? Be it a vacation home, an investment property, or a new house, buying a second home can be difficult to finance. Lenders see a second home mortgage as a higher risk and they may be more wary about approving a loan. Many buyers shy away from investing in a new home in fear that they won't be able to get a mortgage on a second property. Don't worry, with this guide, finding and financing your property can be a smooth process.


Control Your Debt


One of the most important things you can do when buying a second home is to make sure your debt is controlled. Your lender should have a detailed report of all loans, mortgages and monthly bills that take away from your monthly income. Seeing an outlined copy of your expenditures will help the lender feel less at risk. Also, it's recommended that at least 60 of your monthly earnings are available for this second home.


Save, Save, Save


The best thing you can do when purchasing a second home is to give a large down payment. More money upfront means less interest is accumulating. Also, you're more likely to secure a loan as lenders will be more at ease with a large down payment.


Review Your Credit Score


You'll want to make sure your credit score is at least average, if not above average. Lenders are going to check that you've paid your credit cards and bills on time. There are not as many programs in place to help homebuyers buy a second property, so be sure you are in good financial standing before doing so.


Know Your Stuff


Are you looking into purchasing a home and renting it out to tenants? While this can be a great financial investment, you should also be aware that this can be costly. Should anything go wrong with the property, you will be held responsible. Have the home inspected and make sure it's in good condition.


Homeowners should also be prepared that their home may not be occupied all of the time. This can be troublesome if you're relying on the rental income to pay the mortgage. Be sure you can afford the mortgage payment if the home is unoccupied. If you're interested in renovating, you should provide your lender with a detailed outline of your planned improvements. This can help persuade the lender that their loan will be a low risk and high return investment.


Homeowners should also be fully informed of all the additional costs that will be included with owning a second home. The additional expenses involved usually comprise home insurance, property taxes, and landscape maintenance. If you're purchasing a home out of the country or state, your property taxes are likely to be different than your first home. There are different rules for each state so be sure to talk to your lender about what kind of tax breaks you may qualify for.


Shop Around


Speak with many different lenders and find one that is right for you. Ask your friends and your real estate agent for recommendations. You should ask your lender as many quality questions as you can and clarify closing costs.


Purchasing a second home can be an exciting time for many people. Whether you're buying your dream vacation home or investing in a rental property, you should make sure that this investment will still allow you to be financially comfortable. Finding a lender for a second home mortgage can be tough, but with the right preparations, can be mostly stress-free.


Interested in buying a second home in Austin? Contact the real estate experts at JB Goodwin today to or call them at 512-502-7804.
 ]]> </description>
    <pubDate>Sat, 21 Nov 2015 14:08:00 -0600</pubDate>
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    <guid>https://www.jbgoodwin.com/blog/the-steps-to-building-a-new-home-in-austin-san-antonio.html</guid>
    <link>https://www.jbgoodwin.com/blog/the-steps-to-building-a-new-home-in-austin-san-antonio.html</link>
        <author>macastro@jbgoodwin.com (Mary Ann Castro)</author>
        <title>The 10 Steps to Building A New Home In Austin &amp; San Antonio</title>
    <description> <![CDATA[ 



Congratulations You've found the perfect property in Austin, it's all financed and you're ready to build your dream home. This is an exciting time for you and you'll want to make sure all of your bases are covered before starting such a large project. Where should you even begin with building your own home? Read this step-by-step guide for everything you need to know about building a house.


1. Choosing A Builder


A key piece of advice when choosing a builder is to shop around. This is as important as choosing a property for your home. For a list of well-respected builders, take a look at our Austin Builders Directory or San Antonio Builders Directory. Ask important questions, such as whether the company a member of the Home Builders Association of Greater Austin. Ask the builder for references from previous clients and follow up with them to be sure they are satisfied. You should also look deeply into the builder's warranty program and what it covers. Additionally, find out what else the builder is currently building and browse those properties to ensure you like the final product.


2. Preparing The Site


So you've found your builder and you're ready to get started The next step is preparing the site. The crew will be clearing the area of rocks and trees and will be leveling the property. Next, they will be creating a template to assist in laying the foundation. Contractors will be digging the necessary holes and trenches for any basements or plumbing needs. Once completed, the concrete will be poured and leveled, and any first floor utility runs will be installed. The concrete will need some time to settle, so there won't be any work done on site during this period.


After the concrete has settled, the crew will apply a waterproofing membrane to the foundation walls and will install all first-floor plumbing requirements. Be sure to have your home inspected by a city inspector to ensure that the foundation is up to code.


3. Framing Your Home


The shell of your home is ready to be built. Plywood or oriented strand board sheathing is assembled to the exterior walls and roof. All of the windows and exterior doors should now be installed. A house wrap will be fitted around the sheathing to stop liquid from being absorbed into the structure, preventing mold and rot. Now, your home is ready for plumbing and electrical work to be done


4. Plumbing, Electrical, HVAC &amp; Insulation


The shell is complete and before the insulation can be put in, contractors will need to install the plumbing pipes, electrical wires, and the HVAC ducts. Water and sewer supply lines will need to be connected to each sink, tub and toilet in the home. Also, you'll want to bring in any large one-piece tubs and showers because it will be nearly impossible to maneuver them inside once the insulation has been put in.


The roof should then be completed so that the electrician can install receptacles for outlets, lights and switches and run wires to the breaker panel. Then, an additional inspection should take place to ensure that the framing, plumbing and electrical systems are in compliance with building codes.


Your home is now ready for insulation Choosing an insulation type can be tricky, so consult your builder for suggestions. Sometimes, investing a bit more in good insulation can save you more over a long period of time. Spray foam, for example, may cost more than the traditional fiberglass or cellulose insulation; however, it's capable of filling even the smallest cavities, creating a more effective air barrier.


5. Drywall &amp; Interior Fixtures


Your new home checklist will need to include installing drywall and applying the first layer of paint. As you start choosing interior details and seeing your home come together, you will become more excited to move in. Next, the outside of your house will start being pieced together.


6. Exterior Finishes, Driveways &amp; Walkways


Contractors will begin installing the exterior material such as stucco, stone, vinyl siding or brick. The driveway should then be created, in addition to any walkways. Once these are completed, landscaping your beautiful new home can continue It's recommended to wait to lay grass as this can be damaged by any delivery trucks or heavy equipment.


7. Interior Details


It's time for the inside details to be added. Contractors can add the trim, fixtures, cabinets, doors, and stair handrails to complete the inside. Another layer of paint can be added and the final touches will soon be ready to be added


8. Flooring &amp; Countertops


Whether you chose ceramic tile or hardwood flooring, your home is ready for the floors to be put in place. In addition, the countertops for the kitchen can be put in place, making your home almost livable.


9. Interior Necessities


Sinks, toilets, faucets, light fixtures and outlets are the little details that also need to be completed before moving into your new home. These tasks should not take long and should also include installing shower doors and carpets, and completing any final cleanup. One more important inspection and your home is ready


10. Final Walkthrough


Your builder will escort you, as the final inspector, through your new home and explain the operation of different systems. They should also be re-discussing the warranty coverage with you. You'll want to examine every detail in depth to ensure that there aren't any items that should be fixed or adjusted. Check for any damage to floors and walls because once you've moved in, it's impossible to prove if the damage was caused by the movers or builders.


Your home is now move-in ready It's an incredible feeling to see the progress of building a house from the ground up and to be involved in choosing all of the details. Next time you're building a property, you can be the expert.


If you're interested in building a new home in Austin or San Antonio, contact the real estate experts at JB Goodwin.
 ]]> </description>
    <pubDate>Thu, 19 Nov 2015 13:36:00 -0600</pubDate>
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    <guid>https://www.jbgoodwin.com/blog/austin-mls-sold-comparison-september-2015.html</guid>
    <link>https://www.jbgoodwin.com/blog/austin-mls-sold-comparison-september-2015.html</link>
        <author>macastro@jbgoodwin.com (Mary Ann Castro)</author>
        <title>Austin MLS Sold Comparison - September 2015</title>
    <description> <![CDATA[  ]]> </description>
    <pubDate>Thu, 12 Nov 2015 11:56:35 -0600</pubDate>
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    <guid>https://www.jbgoodwin.com/blog/fha-approved-condos-in-austin-tx.html</guid>
    <link>https://www.jbgoodwin.com/blog/fha-approved-condos-in-austin-tx.html</link>
        <author>macastro@jbgoodwin.com (Mary Ann Castro)</author>
        <title>FHA Approved Condos in Austin, TX</title>
    <description> <![CDATA[ 
On the hunt for FHA approved condos in Austin? You'll find all of them below There are currently 51 FHA approved condos in Austin, many of which are move-in ready. With one of these approved residences and an FHA loan, home ownership home is within reach for almost anyone, and we're here to help make your dream a reality.


Current Condos With FHA Approval


As of November 5, the following condos have FHA approval in Austin.




Morrow Street Condo


Congress Condos


At The Loop Condos


Allendale Condos


Ashdale Gardens Condos


Avery Ranch West Condos


Balconers Towers


The Boulevard


Brodie Heights Condos


Cinnamon Hollow


Cody Court Condos


Colina Vista Condos


Colonial Place Condos


Creekside Terrace Condos


Dry Creek West Condos


East End Flats Condos


Edgewick Condos


Este Condo


Gabardine


Gardens At Covered Bridge


Greenway Lofts


Ingleside Condo


Jamestown Place Condos


Lakeline Square Condo


Marbella Villas Townhomes


Motevista Condos


Mountain Shadows Cove


North Park Patio Homes


Old Town Condos


Parkside At Northtown Condos


Parmer Village Townhomes &amp; Condos


Ramsey Park Condos


Ravenscroft Townhomes


Retama Garden Homes


Scenic Place


Scofield Ridge


Skybridge Loft Condos


Spicewood Point Townhomes &amp; Spicewood Village


Summerwind Townhomes &amp; Condos


The Summit Condos HOA


Sunnyvale Villas


Sweetbriar Garden Home


The Groves Of Los Indios Condos


The Orange Grove Condo


Travis Green Condo


Villas Of Coronado Hills


Vista Hills Condos


Whispering Valley Condo




Still need a little more information? To learn more about FHA approved condos, contact our teamto start exploring the listings below. It would be our pleasure to connect you with the condo of your dreams


All FHA Approved Condos in Austin





What Is An FHA Approved Condo?


An approved Federal Housing Administration (FHA) condo is one that's been approved for an FHA mortgage loan. The condos listed above have been recognized by the FHA as being financially stable, and must have a little bit of money saved away in case of emergencies. Those with an FHA mortgage loan must seek out homes and condos for sale that have been FHA approved, like the ones above. This type of loan is popular with those who have limited funds, savings, and assets, like first time homebuyers, as they require a substantially lower downpayment than traditional loans.


For more information about Austin real estate, including financing opportunities, get in touch with our team now
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    <pubDate>Thu, 05 Nov 2015 17:42:26 -0600</pubDate>
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